MICHAEL Johnson admitted he was puzzled by the criticism Steve Bruce and Blues have received this season.

There has been a turnover of 38 players and a net transfer profit of #8.7million since relegation, and a huge weight of pressure and expectation, yet Blues have maintained a challenge for automatic promotion.

"I have found all the stick Brucie and the players have been getting very harsh," said former St Andrew's favourite Johnson.

"He's had to completely change it around, sell some top players and he and the team have also had to cope with everyone demanding that they get straight back up.

"The fact that they are still in the shake-up tells you what a good job Brucie has done, and is also a tribute to the players. This league is very, very tough, believe me. Nobody has run away with the Championship this season.

"So many teams are fighting for promotion, and then there's those at the bottom who are capable of beating anyone on their day. It's all about having that gutsy determination, not so much skill and technical ability.

"Brucie's done a tremendous job as Birmingham have been there or thereabouts all season and are in a great position now. I think they can get up. They've got good players, a manager who knows what it takes and they've got a fair bit of experience."

Johnson said that the team who have caught his eye are Albion.

"The way they have gone about their business, in league and cup, has been impressive," he said. "They have got some terrific players - Premiership players - and they can really knock the ball about.

"Sunderland had an horrific start but they've come right back into it and they're tough, the form side at the minute."